Just before 1:00 AM on June 12, 2004 the Scranton Fire Dept was dispatched to a structure fire at the intersection of 9th Ave and Robinson St., a vacant turn of the century hotel. The Acting Asst. Chief, responding from Fire Headquarters in central city, reported heavy smoke visible out the door. Immediately, an extra Engine Co was dispatched. The first companies arriving on scene reported heavy black smoke poring from every window on the third floor, as well as fire venting in the rear of the structure. Once on scene the Chief, realizing the initial companies on scene were not going to be adequate, requested additional help in the form of two more engine companies and a truck.
An interior attack was made in the early goings of the fire but had to be abandoned when the roof began to collapse, and the fire broke through as if refusing to give up its hold of the former hotel. The beast took refuge in the twisted debris of the roof, eluding the thousands and thousands of gallons of water being poured into the structure to kill the animal.
Crews remained on the scene for over three hours.
The following companies were on scene:
Initial Box: E-7, E-9, R-1, T-4, and the Chief.
Additional: E-4, E-2, E-8, T-2 and mobile air command.
